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Governance

FortisBC & BC Heat Pump Rebates

Overview

FortisBC has historically offered a range of rebates supporting high‑efficiency heating systems, including dual‑fuel configurations that combine an electric heat pump with a high‑efficiency natural gas furnace. These programs have shifted significantly over the past two years, with several major changes occurring in late 2025. As of March 2026, the dual‑fuel rebate landscape is materially different from what was available in 2024–2025.

This article summarizes the most current, verifiable information, outlines what has changed, and highlights strategic considerations for RedBlue and its contractor network.


Recent Program Changes (2025–2026)

Multiple HVAC industry sources confirm that FortisBC discontinued several major residential rebates — including dual‑fuel — on December 18, 2025 due to high participation volumes.

  • Vision Plumbing Heating & Cooling reports that dual‑fuel and income‑qualified rebates were discontinued mid‑December 2025.

  • John Sadler Plumbing & Heating reports the same deadline, noting that dual‑fuel and connected thermostat rebates were among the programs ending.

  • Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration also confirms that FortisBC ended multiple rebate programs in December 2025 after reaching participation targets.

Additionally, FortisBC’s income‑qualified dual‑fuel rebate is officially listed as ended, with final invoice and commissioning deadlines in April–May 2025.

What this means today (March 2026)

  • There is no currently published FortisBC dual‑fuel rebate active in 2026.

  • The last confirmed dual‑fuel rebates ended December 18, 2025.

  • Any references to dual‑fuel rebates in 2026 marketing materials from contractors are typically legacy references to 2025 programs.

This does not rule out future FortisBC program updates, but no active 2026 dual‑fuel rebate is listed in any official or industry‑verified source.


Context: The 2024 Announcement

FortisBC’s July 2024 announcement introduced a new rebate of $10,000 or more for homeowners upgrading to qualifying dual‑fuel systems. That announcement was widely reported and generated significant industry interest.

However, based on all available 2026 information:

  • The 2024 program appears to have been time‑limited.

  • It is not listed as active in any 2026 rebate directories or contractor advisories.

  • The 2025 discontinuation notices align with the end of this program cycle.

For internal purposes, it is accurate to treat the 2024 announcement as historically valid, while recognizing that the program is not currently active.


What a Dual‑Fuel System Is

A dual‑fuel system integrates:

  • Electric heat pump — primary heating and cooling, high efficiency.

  • High‑efficiency gas furnace — supplemental heating for colder temperatures or peak demand.

This hybrid approach allows:

  • Optimized energy use based on outdoor temperature

  • Reduced emissions compared to furnace‑only systems

  • Improved comfort and reliability

Dual‑fuel remains a relevant technology category even without an active rebate.


Strategic Implications for RedBlue

Market Positioning

Even without an active rebate, dual‑fuel systems remain strategically important:

  • They align with BC’s long‑term electrification and emissions‑reduction goals.

  • They offer a balanced solution for homeowners concerned about cold‑weather performance.

  • They may re‑enter the rebate landscape in future program cycles.

Maintaining internal readiness ensures RedBlue can respond quickly if FortisBC reintroduces incentives.

Contractor Enablement

Contractors benefit from:

  • Clear, current information about rebate availability

  • Guidance on how to communicate evolving program landscapes

  • Standardized commissioning and documentation workflows for hybrid systems

RedBlue can support contractors by maintaining updated internal resources and training modules.

Communications Considerations

Given the rapid changes in rebate programs:

  • Internal and external messaging should emphasize eligibility confirmation rather than fixed rebate amounts.

  • When discussing past programs, framing should focus on historical context and ongoing monitoring.

  • Avoid implying that discontinued programs are currently available.

This approach maintains accuracy while respecting the dynamic nature of utility‑driven incentives.


Summary for Leadership Discussion

  • Dual‑fuel rebates were active in 2024 and 2025, including high‑value offerings.

  • Multiple industry‑verified sources confirm that FortisBC discontinued dual‑fuel rebates on December 18, 2025.

  • No active FortisBC dual‑fuel rebate is published for 2026 as of March.

  • The technology remains strategically relevant, and future incentives are possible.

  • RedBlue may wish to discuss how to position dual‑fuel offerings in the absence of current rebates and how to prepare for potential future program cycles.